SCSU professor's death follows hit-and-run crash on New Haven streets

Southern Connecticut State University lost a central figure in its English department on Saturday when Michael Shea died from injuries sustained in a traffic accident. Shea, a longtime professor known for his direct advocacy for students, was struck while crossing a street in New Haven. The incident has left a gap in a department where colleagues describe him as the primary force supporting both academic and administrative interests of the student body.

The timeline of Shea's final weeks reveals a man active in his final days. On Oct. 9, he was using a crosswalk at the intersection of Whalley and West Rock avenues in New Haven. Police Officer Christian Bruckhart stated that an e-bike rider struck Shea while he was in the crosswalk. Another pedestrian in the crosswalk was not hit. The e-bike operator had passed several stopped vehicles at the signal and continued north through the intersection before fleeing the scene. Shea was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital with serious injuries and died on Saturday morning.

At the time of the crash, Shea was teaching four classes for the fall 2026 semester. University records show he was scheduled to teach three classes for the spring 2027 semester. He had been on faculty at SCSU for decades, building a reputation for intense advocacy. Andrew Richmond, an associate English professor who met Shea in 2018, described Shea's investment in his students as absolute. Richmond noted that Shea met constantly with students to ensure they felt part of a community and advocated for their rights in meetings with the administration and the state.

The department is preparing to gather to honor Shea's life. A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Adanti Student Center Ballroom. The event is open to anyone who knew Shea. Attendees are asked to bring a favorite memory of Shea, along with silly jokes, to share with the group.

Former students have shared specific examples of Shea's impact on their careers. Steve Mark, a 1991 SCSU graduate, cited Shea's teaching internship as the factor that led to his 28-year career as a professor. Vicki Tischio, who completed undergraduate and master's degrees at SCSU, credited Shea with guiding her transformation from a high school dropout to a university professor. Tischio said she still strives to be half the teacher and human being Shea was.

Colleagues remember Shea as a man who used performance and humor to make people listen. Tim Parrish, an English professor, said he became friends with Shea in 1994. Parrish recalled that Shea said fearless things to power that few would say. Parrish described Shea as leaving a desert in his heart, but noted that the work Shea sowed will keep sprouting. Andrew Smythe, a faculty director, highlighted the semiannual solstice parties Shea held with his wife, Candance Barrington, which drew people from all walks of life.

Former SCSU President Joe Bertolino recalled meeting Shea in the summer of 2016. Bertolino expected a barrage of questions upon his arrival but instead found a man who wanted nothing more than to welcome him to the institution. Bertolino said Shea's intentions were pure and he wanted Southern to thrive.

In a July conversation, Shea told former student Mia DiScipio that he would not stop teaching until it no longer presented a challenge. Shea stated that life was too precious to waste a single moment working a job that did not bring joy. He could have retired a decade ago but opted to continue because of his love for the work.

The university announced the death in a Tuesday news release. Shea is survived by his wife, Candance Barrington. The department will hold the memorial to celebrate his life and his contributions to the field of English education.

Shea's death occurred three weeks after the crash. Police have not yet identified the e-bike operator. The university has not announced plans for a scholarship or fund in his name, though the memorial service will serve as the primary public gathering to remember his tenure.